SMT Valentine’s Day Gift Guide
AKA the January-Was-Awful-Treat-Yourself list.
HELLO FEBRUARY. Goodness, I am very glad to see January in the rearview mirror. After a challenging start to the year, I turned a corner over the weekend with a re-do of my birthday (which fell on the worst day of the fires here in Los Angeles). I almost scrapped any and all celebrations, but with Matt’s urging and planning we threw together a last-minute drinks — and had the best time. Balloons and bubbly, plus a very fun new bodysuit, made for a heck of a party. It was a reminder to seize these moments of joy when possible.
In that spirt, today I present my first-ever So Many Thoughts Valentine’s Day Gift Guide. But really, in times like these, you do not need to wait for an occasion or a date on the calendar to indulge in a bit of self care. A sprinkle of something fun or pretty or comforting is welcome any time.
Below, 10 ideas that I hope bring on a similar sentiment, including a spicy novel, a pretty pink lipstick and my new favorite necklace — xo!
So Many Thoughts 2025 Valentine’s Day Gift Guide
Like my holiday gift guide, everything you will find below is something I have already in hand or have ordered. 💗 Happy to answer any questions I can in the comments.
Please note: I use affiliate links, which means if you click on something below I may get a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you so much for supporting SMT!
1. Show-me-the-way necklace
Click to shop: Mignonne Gavigan
I was drawn to the style name — this is called the “seeker” — and the hint of color in the tiny stones. I also appreciate how it’s longer than my current necklaces, adding nicely to the stack.
2. Big, floppy bow
Click to shop: Jennifer Behr
I am loving the variety in bow shapes right now, everything from long and slender to more of a statement. The dreamy, dusty rose of this velvet piece is perfect for a V-day dinner date.
3. Mighty moisturizer
Click to shop: Sephora
Does anyone else obsessively collect lotion in the dry winter months? I just got this and it checks many boxes. The scent is not too sweet and not too strong, but the best part is it offers loads of moisture without leaving a greasy film.
4. The motivating mug
Click to shop: Rifle Paper Co.
I ordered this on-sale gem at the very start of the year, not knowing how much I would need it. (Note: The gold on the handle means you can’t microwave it — but that just gets me to drink my coffee faster. 🙃)
5. Perfect pink pout
Click to shop: Chanel
H/t to
, who shared this lipstick on Insta Stories. It was a jolt of positivity in my doom scrolling; the idea of a fancy pink lipstick delighted me. It arrived last week and I can confirm, it’s lovely.
6. Evil eye earrings
Click to shop: Rebecca Dana
I reach for my hoops from this designer all the time, so for my birthday Matt asked if I wanted another pair of her earrings. I picked out this subtle evil eye style, which feels fitting (and needed) for 2025.
7. A spicy read
Click to shop: Bookshop.org
Author Miranda July popped up on my discovery page recently and I ordered this much-raved about book immediately. YOWSER. It *rocked* my middle-aged world. Highly recommend (Note: It’s R-rated.)
8. Clear-as-day readers
Click to shop: Warby Parker
About that middle-aged world…LOL. I have been amassing a collection of readers and cannot believe I hadn’t discovered these? They are well worth the price tag, by far the clearest lenses I’ve found.
9. The coziest blanket
Click to shop: ChappyWrap
Bringing this recommendation back because it’s the perfect winter-is-not-over cozy blanket. You all told me for years that these were the best — and you were right! Perfect level of softness, without too much bulk.
10. Skincare starter set
Click to shop: Versed
The cleansing balm (my FAVE, especially on days I wear more makeup) has been a gateway into this affordable skincare line. I love this starter set, with serum that layers nicely and a cooling eye cream.
Shopping for the kiddos? These are our fave paint markers and these paper pads were the biggest Christmas hit.
The Glossier body cream is HEAVEN!
There’s something for everyone on this list! Love finding little things to elevate your daily life!